Cost of Living in Elma, WA

With a cost of living index of 99, Elma, WA is right around the national average in cost. Living here is 1% cheaper than the national average and 21% below the Washington state average of 119. Elma is a small community of 3,452 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Elma's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $987 (25% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $379,200 (24% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 5.7x the median household income — a stretch for many buyers, though not uncommon in today's market.

The median household income in Elma is $66,194, which is 12% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 18% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Elma. The area sees an average annual temperature of 51.4°F, with summers averaging 63°F and winters around 41°F. Annual rainfall totals 67.9 inches spread over roughly 167 days.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.